Get muddy and help restore a shrinking oasis for Stamford’s wildlife! You can help to restore one of the last salt marshes left along the shores of Stamford Harbor.

Salt marshes are coastal wetlands made up of grasses and spongy peat mud. They are one of the most biologically diverse habitats on earth, on par with rain forests and coral reefs, and provide refuge to over 75% of commercially important marine species for at least part of their life cycles. Much of their strength is due to their diversity of plants and animals, but an invasive reed, Phragmites, is encroaching on marshes all along the East Coast. It grows quickly and densely and as tall as 20 feet high, blocking out sunlight and crowding out the many native plants that make salt marshes the ideal habitat for many animals.

Within the small pocket of salt marsh at Boccuzzi Park, an even smaller pocket remains that has not been overtaken by the invasive reed. SoundWaters is asking for help from the community to cut the Phragmites in the marsh, creating space for the re-planting of native grasses. Together, we will ensure this urban oasis is around to support wildlife for years to come.

2026 Salt Marsh Dates & Details:

• Sunday, May 17, starts 1 pm (2-3 hour time commitment)

Location:  Meet at the Cohen SoundWaters Harbor Center, 200 Southfield Ave, located in Boccuzzi Park

What to Bring:

• Reusable water bottle

• Clothes you don’t mind getting muddy or wet

• Sunscreen

SoundWaters will:

• Provide all materials (including waders, tools, and gloves) and instruction.

• Provide an educational component so that all participants walk away with a deeper, more meaningful understanding of Long Island Sound and our greater environment.